Scandinavians always claim to be the exception yet are gradually dismantling their systems.

Speaking of Denmark, one strength I think is that high wages and relatively low house prices in comparison to Denmark mean that the is a large consumer base. It also means that there is very high unemployment insurance, which in turn is good for stability and means the freedom to hire and fire is rather more easy going. I suspect the high wages also mean that employers focus on getting more out per hour.

Spotted on another forum, a tribute to Hugo Chavez: "This has affected me quite badly ... he was a hero of mine. To remember him, I've had his initials etched into the tops of my bathroom taps."

"At times to be silent is to lie. You will win because you have enough brute force. But you will not convince. For to convince you need to persuade. And in order to persuade you would need what you lack: Reason and Right."